Clarity is important

1 Corinthians 10:23-31 (ESV)

23 “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. 24 Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. 25 Eat whatever is sold in the meat market without raising any question on the ground of conscience. 26 For “the earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof.” 27 If one of the unbelievers invites you to dinner and you are disposed to go, eat whatever is set before you without raising any question on the ground of conscience. 28 But if someone says to you, “This has been offered in sacrifice,” then do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for the sake of conscience— 29 I do not mean your conscience, but his. For why should my liberty be determined by someone else's conscience? 30 If I partake with thankfulness, why am I denounced because of that for which I give thanks? 31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Clarity is important.  When my boys were growing up I regularly give them some ‘opportunities’ to help me with around the house to give them ‘exposure’ to what it’s like to be an adult.  Mainly, I try to encourage them to see a problem and then fix it. To get the result I want I have to be very clear with the direction that I gave approaching each problem.  

Fasting also requires clarity – a well-defined thing we’re going to fast from and a pre-determined time we’re going to spend fasting.  For your digital fast you need to figure out exactly what forms of technology you’re going to break from.  I’d encourage you to think about the things that currently occupy a lot of your time and tie up your attention. Maybe it’s your social media apps, Netflix…you decide.  Then determine your parameters and the length of time you plan to fast. If this is your first digital fast, start with an hour or two a day (I’m going to shut my phone off from 6-8:00 pm or I’ll leave my phone in my room during meal times, for example). If you really want to “go big” try fasting from all your technology for a 24-hour period.

1 Corinthians 10 reminds us that good things (like technology) aren’t always good for us.  Read this passage today and think about what “good things” in your life you need to take a break from so they don’t eventually hurt you (or those around you)!

Dear Lord, I pray that we would take the time to look at the things that are taking up our time. Help us to put You first in all things that we do. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.